By Psychology Arts
Jody Pittner, ATR-BC, LPCC is passionate about empowering teens to use creativity to create change within themselves and in their communities. Jody has been an artist and explorer for over 30 years and remains a life learner, growing and stretching herself personally and professionally at all times.
What do you do? Who do you help?
I am a board certified art therapist, licensed professional clinical counselor, and owner of Truly Connected Counseling and Art Therapy, a private practice devoted to tweens and teens.
It is a great honor to watch patients light up when given the opportunity to be creative. Whether it is a child dealing with a complex, chronic medical condition, a parent concerned about their child's survival, or a teen experiencing suicidal thoughts and self-harming behavior, I see how art allows them to connect to something "life-giving", something softer and kinder than their pain.
As a private practice owner, I continue to witness the power of art therapy to assist my teen clients to create the change they desire. I have created a unique, safe space for teens to connect to themselves and others through my innovative Create & Cope Group Therapy program, expressive arts workshops, and seasonal camps. I have a passion for assisting clients in recovering from traumatic events with a special sensitivity for those who have suffered medical trauma. I also love working with parents as much as teens, offering a variety of free parent trainings, articles, and resources to all who engage in therapy.
List your favorite therapeutic tools.
What tools I use depend on the presenting issue. I am also an EMDR trained therapist working toward certification. I often combine art therapy with other modalities.
What is a good course, website or book you would recommend and why?
My EMDR Training with The Institute for Creative Mindfulness has been incredibly beneficial.
I also really love DBT Informed Art Therapy by Susan Clark as well as the trainings I’ve taken in DBT Skills. Lynn Lyons training for anxiety is fabulous.
What makes your practice unique?
The teens I love working with tend to be introverts who may be struggling with self-esteem, anxiety, and/or seeking to heal after a traumatic event. The teens I work with learn to speak their truth and set healthy boundaries so that they can feel seen and heard in relationships. They learn how to face the uncertainty with a deeper awareness of their own strength and resilience. They learn how to compassionately respond to intense emotions without making things worse. They learn to skillfully cope with stress resulting in less blowups and breakdowns at home and at school. They learn how to move through painful experiences of the past so they can open to the possibility of a future. My goal is for teens and their parents to leave my practice empowered and ready to create the life they desire.
"My goal is for teens and their parents to leave my practice empowered and ready to create the life they desire."
What advice would you give to other creative arts therapists?
Create a circle of colleagues who inspire you and challenge you to expand your skills.
Do your own work.
Make time for your own creativity.
What is your self-care routine?
It changes depending on my needs but eating well, drinking enough water, and exercise are key. My other musts are acupuncture and massage. Hiking and spending time with my family are very important to me.
List the products or items that are indispensable in your life.
Any art material, but especially live alcohol inks and watercolor.
Who influences your work and why?
My clients.
Social media platforms and website(s)
Website: www.trulyconnectedcounseling.com
Instagram: @truly_connected_counseling
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